How to Buy Condoms

Last Updated: December 16, 2022 References Approved

Buying condoms for the first time is a big milestone, and it's normal to have a few questions at first! Don't worry, you're not in this alone. We'll help walk you through the process, from deciding where to buy the condoms to knowing what size, style, and material to choose.

1

Buy regular condoms at a discount or drug store.

It's probably best to stick to a basic condom to start with. You can find condoms at discount stores like Wal-Mart and Target as well as drug stores like Walgreens and CVS. These places stock a variety of general purpose condoms from popular brands like Trojan and Durex.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Jacqueline Hellyer
Licensed Psychosexual Therapist
Expert Interview. 15 October 2021.}
- Look for condoms near the store’s pharmacy or personal hygiene area.
- Depending on the store, expect condoms to cost between $2 and $6 for a box of 3.
- You can also check with big bix online retailers like Amazon. Depending on the specific brand, these condoms may even be cheaper online.

2

Purchase specialty condoms at an adult store.

Adult stores carry a more adventurous selection. Though you can get generic condoms at discount and drugs stores, adult shops may be your only option for finding unique or whimsical contraceptives. In addition to purely functional varieties, adult stores offer a wide selection of fun condoms with differing textures, colors, tastes, and scents.
- Normally, adult shops charge significantly more per condom than discount or drug stores.

3

Buy unique contraceptives on condom websites.

This may provide the most diverse selection. Online stores like CondomDepot offer a far wider selection of condoms than standard shopping sites. In addition to traditional varieties, these stores carry condoms from independent producers around the world and stock plenty of fun, unique contraceptives that can spice up your sex life.
- If you want to buy condoms without anybody knowing, check the seller’s shipping policy to make sure they offer discreet shipping.

4

Pick up free condoms from a local health organization.

Check your local health department or doctor's office. In certain cities and towns, you can acquire free or discounted condoms from your doctor’s office, health department, or a health center like Planned Parenthood. Some places keep their condoms in an open area where you can take as many as you need. For others, you may have to request the condoms directly.
- Check websites like http://condomfinder.org to locate free condom distributors near you.
- If you're in high school or college, you might also check to see if your school offers. ^{[2]
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5

Purchase condoms in bulk to save money.

Most physical stores only sell condoms a few units at a time. However, many online shops offer bulk condoms that cost less per unit than their in-store alternatives. Once you find a brand you like, consider buying in bulk to cut down on your overall spending.

6

Decide which material works best for you and your partner.

Condoms come in a variety of different materials. They all feel a little different but, when used correctly, are equally effective at preventing pregnancy.^{[3]
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Expert Source

Jacqueline Hellyer
Licensed Psychosexual Therapist
Expert Interview. 15 October 2021.}^{[4]
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Research source}
- Latex rubber is the most common condom material. These contraceptives are cheap and effective, but you'll need to use another type if you or your partner is allergic to latex.
- Lambskin is a natural latex alternative that is incredibly effective at preventing unwanted pregnancy. However, lambskin condoms do not prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.^{[5]
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- Polyurethane condoms are stronger and thicker than latex condoms, meaning they’re more expensive. During use, the material heats up to your body temperature, making it feel like you’re not wearing anything.
- Tactylon condoms are stretchier than other varieties, helping them better conform to the shape of the penis.

7

Find a condom that fits.

If the condom doesn't fit, it could slip off or tear during sex. To prevent that, make sure to choose a size that fits you or your partner’s penis properly.^{[6]
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Expert Source

Jacqueline Hellyer
Licensed Psychosexual Therapist
Expert Interview. 15 October 2021.} In general, regular-sized condoms fit penises that are between 4 and 7 in (10 and 18 cm) long.^{[7]
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Research source}
- Though trying on different sizes is the best way to find out what fits best, you can also look up size charts on condom specialty websites.
- Your condom should roll on easily and stay in place on its own.

8

Pick a texture that feels good to you and your partner.

This is a really personal choice.^{[8]
X
Expert Source

Jacqueline Hellyer
Licensed Psychosexual Therapist
Expert Interview. 15 October 2021.} Some people want their condoms to feel like they aren't even there, while others enjoy the sensation of condoms that have ribs or bumps. Each texture has the same efficacy, so make a choice based on what you and your partner find pleasurable.^{[9]
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Go Ask Alice
Medical advice site with content written by health promotion specialists affiliated with Columbia University
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- Condoms may be ribbed on the inside to increase the wearer’s pleasure or the outside to increase the receiver’s pleasure.

9

Buy lubricated condoms for a more comfortable sexual experience.

Some condoms come with pre-applied lubricant, also known as lube. This reduces unwanted friction during sex, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone and preventing the condom from tearing.
- You can also purchase lube separately. Water and silicone-based lubricants work with most types of condoms, but you should only use oil-based lubricants with polyurethane and tactylon condoms.
- For added protection, get condoms that come with spermicidal lubricant. The spermicide kills a large portion of the sperm following ejaculation. Be aware that spermicides can sometimes cause side effects like irritation, burning, and urinary infections.

10

Purchase colored, scented, or flavored condoms for extra fun.

Have fun experimenting with your condoms. So that you can add some spice to your sex life, specialty stores sell condoms in a variety of colors including turquoise, orange, hot pink, blue, and black. Condoms also come in a variety of different scents and flavors including cinnamon, mint, and cherry.

11

Get female condoms as an alternative to male condoms.

These go inside of the female partner's vagina. They cover part of the labia as well, effectively protecting against pregnancy as well as STDs. Though they aren't as commonly used as male condoms, they can be a great option for certain couples.^{[10]
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- Female condoms are not quite as effective as male condoms, so use them in tandem with a chemical form of birth control.
- Do not use female condoms and male condoms at the same time.
- You can insert female condoms up to 8 hours before intercourse. This makes them a great option for people who dislike interrupting foreplay to put a condom on.

Expert Q&A

Question

How do I know what condoms to buy?

Jacqueline Hellyer
Licensed Psychosexual Therapist
Jacqueline Hellyer is a Licensed Psychosexual Therapist and the Founder of The Love Life Blog and The LoveLife Clinic. With over 20 years of experience, Jacqueline specializes in sex advice, sex tips, and relationship advice. In addition to being an accredited Psychosexual Therapist with the Society of Australian Sexologists (SAS), Jacqueline is also a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation (ICF). Jacqueline holds a BSc in Biochemistry and Human Sciences from The Australian National University, a Graduate Diploma in Applied Science from the University of Canberra, a BA in Languages and Literature from the University of New England (AU), an MSc in Sexual Health from The University of Sydney, and an MSc in Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology from The Alef Trust. Her work and expertise have been featured in Australian Men’s Health, Cosmopolitan, Australian Women’s Health, Marie Claire, and 60 Minutes.

Jacqueline Hellyer

Licensed Psychosexual Therapist

Expert Answer

Grab a variety pack if you aren't sure! They have a few different types in them. You can also buy condoms in different sizes and see which ones are most comfortable.
Question

Should you feel awkward buying condoms?

Jacqueline Hellyer
Licensed Psychosexual Therapist
Jacqueline Hellyer is a Licensed Psychosexual Therapist and the Founder of The Love Life Blog and The LoveLife Clinic. With over 20 years of experience, Jacqueline specializes in sex advice, sex tips, and relationship advice. In addition to being an accredited Psychosexual Therapist with the Society of Australian Sexologists (SAS), Jacqueline is also a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation (ICF). Jacqueline holds a BSc in Biochemistry and Human Sciences from The Australian National University, a Graduate Diploma in Applied Science from the University of Canberra, a BA in Languages and Literature from the University of New England (AU), an MSc in Sexual Health from The University of Sydney, and an MSc in Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology from The Alef Trust. Her work and expertise have been featured in Australian Men’s Health, Cosmopolitan, Australian Women’s Health, Marie Claire, and 60 Minutes.

Jacqueline Hellyer

Licensed Psychosexual Therapist

Expert Answer

Not at all! Buying condoms is a completely normal thing to do, whether you're young or old.